Rotted wood repair

[Jane A.]

Hi DIY experts. I have a spot of rotten wood and I could not replace it without running a huge project so I need a quick fix - how to help this spot which already started to rot. Well, first of all I need to keep water away - and this is my first step. And I am wondering what exactly I should apply to this spot to help the rotten wood stay longer.

[Account Closed]

@Jane A.You haven't said specifically what it is that you're trying to repair but there are several epoxy compounds made for wood. I've used many of them and like Abatron products the best (http://www.abatron.com/). Bondo is not really made for wood repair and will not last (it will fall out).

None of these will work if there is any wood movement or if the directions are not followed explicitly.  And very few are designed for structural repairs.  

The general process is that the wood in question must be made completely dry (12-16% MC). Then a consolidated is applied til the area is saturated. Finally an epoxy compound is applied and when dry, can be sanded & finished. 

Epoxy repairs properly done are time consuming and the products are expensive. They do have their uses but it is generally best to just replace the wood if you can.